Put The Bikes Back On The Strip!

Leave The SUV's In The Garage!

Black bike week 2009, May 21-25

Atlantic Beach - Myrtle Beach, SC

It takes years, the right conditions and sometimes even a little luck to form the perfect pearl.  This has again proven to be true at Atlantic Beach.

Nicknamed "The Black Pearl", Atlantic Beach, SC was formed from the rich culture of African Americans and their mixed heritage -- African, native American, Caribbean and European.

From the early 1940's to the mid 1970's, The Black Pearl became the preferred oceanfront and beach resort where Black folks came to socialize and vacation.  They would travel along Interstate 95, Highway 17 and South Carolina Highway 9, coming from North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Georgia.

The Black Pearl was a thriving oceanfront community that offered its riches to residents and vacationers alike.  All could enjoy her beautiful environment, her sunny beaches, the diversity of her entertainment, food and art.

In 1966, a state charter was issued to Atlantic Beach.  It recognized The Black Pearl as one of the only remaining Black owned oceanfront towns in America.

In the 70's, desegregation would offer new opportunities for Black tourists, vacationers and businesses.  It was positive times for Black folks.  They could now experience some of the freedoms they had never experienced before.

They began to explore other beaches along the Southeast coast.  This would have devastating affects on The Black Pearl.  Without the support of her Black family and community, she began to decline.